Is Columbus or Des Moines more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Des Moines.
0
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
5
Des Moines wins
OH
Columbus
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
905,748
Population
214,133
$53,373
Median Income
+6.8%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,050
Median Rent / mo
-4.8%$1,000✓
$240,000
Median Home Price
-8.3%$220,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
3.99%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Columbus vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Des Moines?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Des Moines?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Des Moines?
Columbus. Des Moines. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.